HIGH SPEED HARMONIC DRIVE SPEED REDUCER.

Abstract

A program was carried out to demonstrate that a modified Harmonic Drive speed reducer could be operated at input speeds well above catalog ratings. The modifications included a special wave generator and a recirculating oil lubrication system. The wave generator employed a double eccentric shaft driving two discs which created the wave shape in the flexspline. At high RPM's the centrifugal force of the orbiting discs was used to react the tooth separating loads, thereby substantially reducing the bearing loads. The unit achieved 18,000 input RPM at 3/4 normal catalog torque rating. A significant gain in efficiency was obtained over standard ratings. The improvement from 80% to 90% at rated torque conditions indicates that the losses are halved with the double eccentric wave generator. A wheel drive conceptual design is presented in which an electric motor is installed inside the flexspline to achieve an extremely compact assembly. (Author)

Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Jan 24, 1968
Accession Number
AD0667383

Entities

People

  • Hugh A. Robinson

Tags

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Assembly
  • Centrifugal Force
  • Efficiency
  • Electric Motors
  • Generators
  • Lubrication
  • Motors
  • Standards

Fields of Study

  • Physics

Readers

  • Electrical Engineering
  • Tribology (the study of the boundary interaction between sliding surfaces, lubrication, wear and friction).

Technology Areas

  • Space
  • Space - Spacecraft Maneuvers